This adventure story, by Roger Lancelyn Green, is a condensed version of Homer’s The Iliad and The Odyssey, recounting the Trojan War and Odysseus’ struggle to return home. A fascinating read, if you are not quite ready for the original versions, this will give you a taste of their thrill and excitement. The story is well-written, action-packed, and moves quickly along.

Green was a friend of C.S. Lewis and encouraged him to publish The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. He’s known for retelling classic stories and myths, including Tales of the Greek Heroes. Using primary sources, he recounts how the Trojan War began, ended, and also events involving the heroes and main characters, such as Agamemnon, Menelaus, Paris, Helen, Achilles, Hector, Ajax, Aeneas, Odysseus, Telemachus, and Penelope.

I read The Iliad and The Odyssey first, which is not necessary. However you decide to do it, this book will round out your knowledge of these life-changing stories. The book is an exciting read.